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Okay, one thing we've discussed in the past is a Muslim Spain trying to reach America. But is this really likely?

For one thing, it seems to me that Muslim Spain is going to have a lot of the problems Morocco, Algeria, etc. did; a lack of naval supplies, for instance. It wasn't a case of Columbus showing up and sailing west. [1]Portuguese exploration down the coast of Africa took decades, and entailed significant nautical advances. [2]

So, is it probable for Al-Andalus engaging in something similar? Well, I can see a desire to go around whoever controls the Trans-Sahara trade. But will Al-Andalus be able to get the Genoese knowledge and experience that Portugal did? I have my doubts.

Thoughts?

[1] Though obligatory pop culture reference: Columbus shouting to Native Americans, "I'M ON A BOAT MOTHA FUCKAS."

[2] Though it's been speculated that caravels are actually derived from a Muslim vessel in Algarve known as the qarib.
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